I have waited many years to get hold of a nice version of our Highest Possible air pistol, today finally one has been found! As always timing plays a part, Trigger heard someone being told on the phone that we were not interested when he had called in to sell it, 'no get it was called out' and the deal was done!
The Highest Possible has been a very elusive item, perhaps because so few were ever made which then had to survive the next 100 years. I have no exact records of the production figures but the Collectors Guide to Air Pistols by Dennis Hiller suggests that the highest serial number known is 1052 suggesting only 1000 odd were ever made.
Engraved on the L.H.S of the air chamber "WESTLEY RICHARDS HIGHEST POSSIBLE - AIR PISTOL". On the frame near the sear is stamped the serial number, 369, which also appears on various other parts. On the left side of the frame is engraved "WESTLEY RICHARDS & CO. - LONDON W" and near the action latch appears "PATENT 24837 1907". The pistol has black chequered vulcanite grips and a 9 3/4 inch rifled barrel. Rear sight appears to be adjustable for elevation only. Length from tip of barrel to base of butt is 12 1/4 inches. The above design was patented by E. Anson, a relative of W. Anson of the well known partnership Anson & Deeley. The "Highest Possible" was also available nickel plated. Highest serial number seen is 1052. Inside of grips are usually scratched with the serial number of part of it and the rifling appears to be anticlockwise. ( From Air Pistols by Dennis Hiller)
The above sequence of photographs shows the cocking of the air pistol.
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Richard Anderson on April 8, 2016 at 8:42 pm
Hi Peter, if not already sold then I’d most likely be interested, many thanks.
Fred Ward on February 7, 2018 at 11:03 pm
Hello
I have also come across a highest possible air rifle 1907. Serial number 1205. It made it’s way all the way to New Zealand. It was my grandfather’s and then my father’s which was taken off him by an auntie for about 30 years for being naughty.
Thanks
Fred Ward
Peter Chapman on June 5, 2015 at 5:00 pm
I have a Westley Richards Highest Possible air pistol serial no. 483 which I would like to sell Any one interested?
Peter Chapman
Roger Harrison on June 7, 2016 at 6:22 am
I have one I would like to sell No 1907. It’s in excellent condition, but have no idea what it’s worth. I have owned it since 1962.
Simon Clode on January 9, 2015 at 5:41 pm
Thank you and please let me know if you need detail photos to help. I am afraid we have no parts, I felt lucky to find this item in the condition it is in!